Bangladesh News Bangladesh - China Relation

[Isa Khan]

Since China and Bangladesh formally established diplomatic relations on October 4, 1975, the friendly bilateral relations between the two countries have been developing in a sound and stable manner over the past years. This year of 2020, marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh, has become an excellent opportunity to further deepen the friendship and partnership between our two countries.

China and Bangladesh traditionally have been enjoying friendly bilateral relations. Looking back on the past 45 years, the leaders of the elder generation in the two countries have created the friendly relations, and with the series of high-level visits, especially President Xi Jinping's visit to Bangladesh in October 2016 and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to China in July 2019, the bilateral relations between China and Bangladesh have been further strengthened and elevated to the strategic partnership of cooperation. Against this background, we are all delighted to see that China-Bangladesh economic and trade cooperation has achieved tangible and fruitful results in this golden development period.

Bangladesh has experienced the fastest growth rate in the Asian Pacific region and is one of the most dynamic countries in the world, maintaining a GDP growth rate of above 6% in a decade and achieving remarkable development attracting worldwide attention. In order to realize the dream of "Amar Sonar Bangla" and the "Vision 2021" and "Vision 2041"of stepping into the categories of middle income countries and developed countries, the government of Bangladesh has been implementing tremendous infrastructure constructions to boost economic development. During this process, China spares no efforts and supports Bangladesh to carry out infrastructure constructions continuously through various means, including concessional loans, investment cooperation, project contracting and China-aid projects. Since 2016, the amount of the concessional loans provided by the Chinese Government to Bangladesh has amounted to about $10 billion, which tops the amount among the development partners of Bangladesh. And Bangladesh has been one of the countries utilizing the largest amount of Chinese concessional loans in three consecutive years.

Major infrastructure projects are the basis for cooperation

A number of major infrastructure projects have been implemented by Chinese enterprises in the fields of transportation, energy, power and communications in Bangladesh, making positive contributions to the economic and social development of the two countries.

In the field of transportation, since 1986, the Chinese Government has helped Bangladesh to build seven bridges under the China-aid framework, which were named as the 1st to 7th Bangladesh- China Friendship Bridge. The 8th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge was started to be built in 2017. Traffic congestion has been effectively alleviated and flood losses have been greatly reduced by these bridges in Bangladesh. Padma Bridge Rail Link Project, financed by concessional loans from the Chinese Government, is currently the largest G-to-G project under "Belt and Road Initiative", with a cost of $3.1 billion. The Multilane Road Tunnel under the River Karnaphuli Project is the only tunnel under river in South Asia, which is also financed by concessional loans from the Chinese Government. In addition, projects such as the Padma Bridge and the Cox Bazar Railway are being undertaken by Chinese companies. When completed, these projects will greatly facilitate the travel of local people and enhance regional connectivity.

In the field of power, with the completion of a number of major infrastructure projects, such as Gulashao 365MW, Payra 1,320MW, S Alam 1,320MW, Patuakhali 1,320MW and Barishal 350MW power plants, they will play an important role in making up the power gap and alleviating the power crisis in Bangladesh.

In the high-tech field, the Establishment of IV Tier National Data Center, funded by concessional loans of the Chinese Government, is the most advanced data storage center in Southeast Asia and South Asia. Installation of Single Point Mooring with Double Pipelines Project will directly import crude oil from ocean ships into Chittagong Refinery by means of undersea oil pipelines, saving crude oil transportation cost and crude oil loss of about $500-800 million annually. Power Grid Network Strengthening Project under PGCB, Expansion and Strengthening of Power System Network under DPDC Area, will realize the intelligent operation of power grid in Bangladesh.

In addition, the successful completion of the Bangabandhu International Conference Center, built with Chinese assistance in 2002, and the forthcoming China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Center and other large functional landmark buildings have served social and economic development of Bangladesh in a favourable way, and have also become the witness of the enduring and ever new friendship between China and Bangladesh.

Trade and investment cooperation further expands and deepens

The vitality and huge potential of Bangladesh's economy are attracting more and more Chinese investors. Especially in the past decade, investment from China to Bangladesh has achieved high-quality development. In terms of growth rate, according to the data of Bangladesh Bank, China's FDI stock in Bangladesh at the end of 2011 and 2019 was $70 million and $833 million respectively, achieved an increase of 10.9 times and an average annual compound growth of 36.3% in 8 years. For the three consecutive fiscal years since FY2018, the net inflow of investment from China to Bangladesh ranked first among all the FDI sources of Bangladesh. In terms of investment areas, the focus of China's investment in Bangladesh has shifted from light industry such as garments, shoes and hats to infrastructure such as power plants and highways. Chinese investors have also invested in Bangladesh's finance, mobile payment, and automotive industries. In the future, the strong momentum of China's investment to Bangladesh will continue.

Over the past 45 years, China-Bangladesh trade cooperation has also made considerable progress. In the year when diplomatic relations were established, the bilateral trade volume was only $3.06 million. In 2019, the bilateral trade volume reached $18.33 billion, which has undergone earth-shaking changes compared with that of 44 years ago. China has become Bangladesh's largest trading partner, and Bangladesh has become China's second largest trading partner in South Asia. In the past 5 years, the bilateral trade volume has maintained a relatively high speed of growth, with an increase of 24.6%. In particular, China has granted preferential tax rate of zero to 97% of tax items originating in Bangladesh from July 1, 2020, which will not only help alleviate the trade imbalance, but will also promote the recovery of bilateral trade from the pandemic and provide continuous impetus to the social and economic development of Bangladesh in the era of post-pandemic.

Human resources cooperation enjoys broad prospects

Bangladesh and China started the human capacity building cooperation under the China-aid framework in 2013. China has been providing training of human resources including short-term training programmes and degree programmes in the areas of public administration, science and technology, agriculture, healthcare and arts. China also provides government scholarships for Bangladeshi students to study in China. The training programmes offered by China to Bangladesh aims at improving managerial skills and practical techniques for government officials, senior managerial personnel and specialized technicians of Bangladesh. From 2013 to 2019, nearly 3,000 officials and technical staff received short-term training under the China-aid framework. About 100 Bangladeshi officials and young scholars have been successfully recommended to study for a higher degree in China.

Nowadays, those trainees are playing an important role in bilateral economic and trade cooperation and long friendship. With the knowledge they have acquired in China, they are contributing to economic development in Bangladesh, while playing a role in deepening the friendship and cooperation forged between the two countries. In 2020, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the training programmes are facing some difficulties. However, under the support of Bangladeshi colleagues, China is actively exploring new approaches to realize the human resource cooperation and seeking the possibility of conducting virtual training.

Great potential for China-Bangladesh economic and trade cooperation

As a good neighbour, good friend and good partner of Bangladesh, China sees the high growth potential of Bangladesh in the future, and maintaining such growth requires timely development of infrastructure and further improvement of the investment environment. China will continue to promote the infrastructure building in the region, while more and more Chinese investors will sincerely participate in the economic development of Bangladesh. At the same time, on economic and technological cooperation, China and Bangladesh have infinite potential to explore the cooperation in the fields of climate change, poverty reduction, public health, human resource development and so forth.

Today, on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, looking forward to the future, China will continue to stand firmly with the people of Bangladesh and continue to support the sustainable development of Bangladesh to bring our economic and trade cooperation to a higher level.

China-Bangladesh economic partnership keeps deepening

Celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh

tbsnews.net

 

[Saithan]

Since China and Bangladesh formally established diplomatic relations on October 4, 1975, the friendly bilateral relations between the two countries have been developing in a sound and stable manner over the past years. This year of 2020, marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh, has become an excellent opportunity to further deepen the friendship and partnership between our two countries.

China and Bangladesh traditionally have been enjoying friendly bilateral relations. Looking back on the past 45 years, the leaders of the elder generation in the two countries have created the friendly relations, and with the series of high-level visits, especially President Xi Jinping's visit to Bangladesh in October 2016 and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to China in July 2019, the bilateral relations between China and Bangladesh have been further strengthened and elevated to the strategic partnership of cooperation. Against this background, we are all delighted to see that China-Bangladesh economic and trade cooperation has achieved tangible and fruitful results in this golden development period.

Bangladesh has experienced the fastest growth rate in the Asian Pacific region and is one of the most dynamic countries in the world, maintaining a GDP growth rate of above 6% in a decade and achieving remarkable development attracting worldwide attention. In order to realize the dream of "Amar Sonar Bangla" and the "Vision 2021" and "Vision 2041"of stepping into the categories of middle income countries and developed countries, the government of Bangladesh has been implementing tremendous infrastructure constructions to boost economic development. During this process, China spares no efforts and supports Bangladesh to carry out infrastructure constructions continuously through various means, including concessional loans, investment cooperation, project contracting and China-aid projects. Since 2016, the amount of the concessional loans provided by the Chinese Government to Bangladesh has amounted to about $10 billion, which tops the amount among the development partners of Bangladesh. And Bangladesh has been one of the countries utilizing the largest amount of Chinese concessional loans in three consecutive years.

Major infrastructure projects are the basis for cooperation

A number of major infrastructure projects have been implemented by Chinese enterprises in the fields of transportation, energy, power and communications in Bangladesh, making positive contributions to the economic and social development of the two countries.

In the field of transportation, since 1986, the Chinese Government has helped Bangladesh to build seven bridges under the China-aid framework, which were named as the 1st to 7th Bangladesh- China Friendship Bridge. The 8th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge was started to be built in 2017. Traffic congestion has been effectively alleviated and flood losses have been greatly reduced by these bridges in Bangladesh. Padma Bridge Rail Link Project, financed by concessional loans from the Chinese Government, is currently the largest G-to-G project under "Belt and Road Initiative", with a cost of $3.1 billion. The Multilane Road Tunnel under the River Karnaphuli Project is the only tunnel under river in South Asia, which is also financed by concessional loans from the Chinese Government. In addition, projects such as the Padma Bridge and the Cox Bazar Railway are being undertaken by Chinese companies. When completed, these projects will greatly facilitate the travel of local people and enhance regional connectivity.

In the field of power, with the completion of a number of major infrastructure projects, such as Gulashao 365MW, Payra 1,320MW, S Alam 1,320MW, Patuakhali 1,320MW and Barishal 350MW power plants, they will play an important role in making up the power gap and alleviating the power crisis in Bangladesh.

In the high-tech field, the Establishment of IV Tier National Data Center, funded by concessional loans of the Chinese Government, is the most advanced data storage center in Southeast Asia and South Asia. Installation of Single Point Mooring with Double Pipelines Project will directly import crude oil from ocean ships into Chittagong Refinery by means of undersea oil pipelines, saving crude oil transportation cost and crude oil loss of about $500-800 million annually. Power Grid Network Strengthening Project under PGCB, Expansion and Strengthening of Power System Network under DPDC Area, will realize the intelligent operation of power grid in Bangladesh.

In addition, the successful completion of the Bangabandhu International Conference Center, built with Chinese assistance in 2002, and the forthcoming China-Bangladesh Friendship Exhibition Center and other large functional landmark buildings have served social and economic development of Bangladesh in a favourable way, and have also become the witness of the enduring and ever new friendship between China and Bangladesh.

Trade and investment cooperation further expands and deepens

The vitality and huge potential of Bangladesh's economy are attracting more and more Chinese investors. Especially in the past decade, investment from China to Bangladesh has achieved high-quality development. In terms of growth rate, according to the data of Bangladesh Bank, China's FDI stock in Bangladesh at the end of 2011 and 2019 was $70 million and $833 million respectively, achieved an increase of 10.9 times and an average annual compound growth of 36.3% in 8 years. For the three consecutive fiscal years since FY2018, the net inflow of investment from China to Bangladesh ranked first among all the FDI sources of Bangladesh. In terms of investment areas, the focus of China's investment in Bangladesh has shifted from light industry such as garments, shoes and hats to infrastructure such as power plants and highways. Chinese investors have also invested in Bangladesh's finance, mobile payment, and automotive industries. In the future, the strong momentum of China's investment to Bangladesh will continue.

Over the past 45 years, China-Bangladesh trade cooperation has also made considerable progress. In the year when diplomatic relations were established, the bilateral trade volume was only $3.06 million. In 2019, the bilateral trade volume reached $18.33 billion, which has undergone earth-shaking changes compared with that of 44 years ago. China has become Bangladesh's largest trading partner, and Bangladesh has become China's second largest trading partner in South Asia. In the past 5 years, the bilateral trade volume has maintained a relatively high speed of growth, with an increase of 24.6%. In particular, China has granted preferential tax rate of zero to 97% of tax items originating in Bangladesh from July 1, 2020, which will not only help alleviate the trade imbalance, but will also promote the recovery of bilateral trade from the pandemic and provide continuous impetus to the social and economic development of Bangladesh in the era of post-pandemic.

Human resources cooperation enjoys broad prospects

Bangladesh and China started the human capacity building cooperation under the China-aid framework in 2013. China has been providing training of human resources including short-term training programmes and degree programmes in the areas of public administration, science and technology, agriculture, healthcare and arts. China also provides government scholarships for Bangladeshi students to study in China. The training programmes offered by China to Bangladesh aims at improving managerial skills and practical techniques for government officials, senior managerial personnel and specialized technicians of Bangladesh. From 2013 to 2019, nearly 3,000 officials and technical staff received short-term training under the China-aid framework. About 100 Bangladeshi officials and young scholars have been successfully recommended to study for a higher degree in China.

Nowadays, those trainees are playing an important role in bilateral economic and trade cooperation and long friendship. With the knowledge they have acquired in China, they are contributing to economic development in Bangladesh, while playing a role in deepening the friendship and cooperation forged between the two countries. In 2020, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the training programmes are facing some difficulties. However, under the support of Bangladeshi colleagues, China is actively exploring new approaches to realize the human resource cooperation and seeking the possibility of conducting virtual training.

Great potential for China-Bangladesh economic and trade cooperation

As a good neighbour, good friend and good partner of Bangladesh, China sees the high growth potential of Bangladesh in the future, and maintaining such growth requires timely development of infrastructure and further improvement of the investment environment. China will continue to promote the infrastructure building in the region, while more and more Chinese investors will sincerely participate in the economic development of Bangladesh. At the same time, on economic and technological cooperation, China and Bangladesh have infinite potential to explore the cooperation in the fields of climate change, poverty reduction, public health, human resource development and so forth.

Today, on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, looking forward to the future, China will continue to stand firmly with the people of Bangladesh and continue to support the sustainable development of Bangladesh to bring our economic and trade cooperation to a higher level.

China-Bangladesh economic partnership keeps deepening

Celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Bangladesh

tbsnews.net

Aren't you worried about the enormous debt incurred and how are the payments going on ?

Ever increasing debt is hardly very healthy.

 

[Isa Khan]

Pakistan, Bangladesh and Algeria were the largest recipients of Chinese arms in last five years, according to new report on global arms transfers.

Sweden-based Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said in the report, published on March 15, that arms exports by China, the world’s fifth largest arms exporter in 2016–20, decreased by 7.8 per cent during 2016–20 period in comparison with previous five years.

The report says the United States remains the largest arms exporter, increasing its global share of arms exports from 32 to 37 per cent between 2011–15 and 2016–20.

“The USA supplied major arms to 96 states in 2016–20, far more than any other supplier. Almost half (47 per cent) of US arms transfers went to the Middle East,” it said.

The SIPRI mentioned that Saudi Arabia alone accounted for 24 per cent of total US arms exports.

“The 15 per cent increase in US arms exports between 2011–15 and 2016–20 further widened the gap between the USA and second largest arms exporter Russia.”

The third and fourth largest exporters also experienced substantial growth between 2011–15 and 2016–20. France increased its exports of major arms by 44 per cent and accounted for 8.2 per cent of global arms exports in 2016–20. India, Egypt and Qatar together received 59 per cent of French arms exports.

Germany increased its exports of major arms by 21 per cent between 2011–15 and 2016–20 and accounted for 5.5 per cent of the global total. The top markets for German arms exports were South Korea, Algeria and Egypt.

Russia and China both saw their arms exports falling. Arms exports by Russia, which accounted for 20 per cent of all exports of major arms in 2016–20, dropped by 22 per cent (to roughly the same level as in 2006–10). The bulk—around 90 per cent—of this decrease was attributable to a 53 per cent fall in its arms exports to India.

The SIPRI informed that Middle Eastern arms imports grew by 25 per cent, driven chiefly by Saudi Arabia (+61 per cent), Egypt (+136 per cent) and Qatar (+361 per cent), between 2011–15 and 2016–20.

For the first time since 2001–2005, the volume of deliveries of major arms between countries did not increase between 2011–15 and 2016–20. However, international arms transfers remain close to the highest level since the end of the cold war.

“It is too early to say whether the period of rapid growth in arms transfers of the past two decades is over,’ said Pieter D. Wezeman, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Arms and Military Expenditure Programme.

“For example, the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic could see some countries reassessing their arms imports in the coming years. However, at the same time, even at the height of the pandemic in 2020, several countries signed large contracts for major arms,” Pieter D. Wezeman added.

‘Pakistan, Bangladesh, Algeria major recipients of Chinese arms’

Pakistan, Bangladesh and Algeria were the largest recipients of Chinese arms in last five years, according to new report on global arms transfers. Sweden-based Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said in the report, published on March 15, that arms exports by China, the world&

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

 

[Isa Khan]

Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe is scheduled to arrive here on a brief visit on Tuesday highlighting the "steady and rapid progress" in Bangladesh-China military cooperation in recent years.

"Yes, the Chinese Defense Minister Fenghe is coming," a senior official told UNB.

Bangladesh Chief of Army Staff General Aziz Ahmed visited China in November, 2019.

General Fenghe was appointed as the head of China's Ministry of National Defense at the 13th National People's Congress on 19 March, 2018.

The Chinese Defense Minister is likely to meet President Abdul Hamid apart from his meeting with the Bangladesh Army Chief.

The visit is taking place when Bangladesh and China are in a discussion over Covid-19 vaccine cooperation.

Earlier this month, Chief of Army Staff of Indian Army Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane also visited Bangladesh.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has recently said he is willing to work with Bangladesh to further connect their development strategies, deepen practical cooperation across the board, and strive for new outcomes from the Bangladesh-China Strategic Partnership of Cooperation.

"China and Bangladesh are close neighbours and traditional friends. In recent years, China-Bangladesh relations enjoy a sound momentum of development, with strategic mutual trust being strengthened and cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative pressing ahead," he said in a message to his Bangladesh counterpart Abdul Hamid.

China's Minister of Defence Fenghe is likely to go to Colombo, Sri Lanka from Dhaka on Tuesday before heading towards Beijing.

Chinese Defense Minister due Tuesday

The Chinese Defense Minister is likely to meet President Abdul Hamid apart from his meeting with the Bangladesh Army Chief

www.tbsnews.net

 

[xizhimen]

Hope for a close partnership between the two military.

 

[Isa Khan]

Chinese defence minister meets army chief​

Visiting Chinese state councillor and defence minister General Wei Fenghe met chief of Bangladesh army staff General Aziz Ahmed at the Army Headquarters in Dhaka on Tuesday.

The Chinese minister led a 20-member delegation.

During the visit, the generals exchanged pleasantries and discussed bilateral issues on developing the relation between the countries, exchanging army trainings and regular discussion on defence issues, said an ISPR release.

Earlier, the delegation offered wreath at the Shika Anirban at the Dhaka Cantonment to pay homage to the martyrs of the War of Liberation in 1971.

Chinese defence minister meets Bangladesh Army chief

Visiting Chinese state councillor and defence minister General Wei Fenghe met chief of Bangladesh army staff General Aziz Ahmed at the Army Headquarters in Dhaka...

www.newagebd.net

 

[Isa Khan]

DHAKA, April 27 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh's President Abdul Hamid on Tuesday met with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe here and the two sides agreed to advance the bilateral military cooperation.

During the meeting, Hamid said Bangladesh and China are time tested friends and reliable strategic cooperation partners, adding that his country attaches great importance to its relations with China and firmly supports the core interests of China.

The Bangladesh president called on both countries to strengthen coordination in international affairs and be committed to safeguarding regional peace, stability, prosperity and development.

Hamid said he hopes the two militaries will continue to strengthen their practical cooperation in various fields, pushing for greater progress in their relations.

He also expressed gratitude for China's strong support for his country in its development of economy and national defense.

Wei said during the meeting that China and Bangladesh have been friendly neighbors since ancient time and have a long history of bilateral ties, adding that presently, both countries are at a crucial time in national rejuvenation and development, enjoying a synergy between their development strategies and a broad prospect for cooperation.

Wei said that China is willing to work with Bangladesh to well implement the important consensus reached between their leaders to further develop the bilateral strategic partnership of cooperation.

With their cooperation being extensive, the two militaries should further increase the high-level visits, deepen cooperation in equipment technology, broaden exchanges in specialized fields, and forge closer military relations, Wei said.

To jointly maintain regional peace and stability, the two sides should make joint efforts against powers outside the region setting up military alliance in South Asia and practicing hegemonism, Wei said.

Also on Tuesday, Wei held in-depth talks with Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff Aziz Ahmed, discussing international and regional situation as well as relations between the two countries and two militaries.

Bangladesh, China agree to increase military cooperation - Xinhua | English.news.cn

www.xinhuanet.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Synopsis
His comments came in the backdrop of the United States, India, Australia and Japan under the Quad grouping agreed to enhance their cooperation in the strategic Indo-Pacific amid growing Chinese assertiveness in the region.

By PTI
Apr 28, 2021, 02:03 PM IST
China and Bangladesh should make joint efforts against powers from outside the region establishing a "military alliance" in South Asia and practising "hegemonism", Chinese Defence Minister Gen. Wei Fenghesaid on Tuesday.

Wei made the remarks when he called on Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid here and the two sides agreed to advance the bilateral military cooperation, China's official Xinhua news agency reported from Dhaka.

His comments came in the backdrop of the United States, India, Australia and Japan under the Quad grouping agreed to enhance their cooperation in the strategic Indo-Pacific amid growing Chinese assertiveness in the region.

China has vehemently opposed the formation of the Quad with a Chinese foreign ministry spokesman emphasising that exchanges and cooperation between countries should help expand mutual understanding and trust, instead of targeting or harming the interests of third parties.

His comments after the first virtual Quad summit attended by US President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on March 12.

Wei said during his meeting with President Hamid that China and Bangladesh have been friendly neighbours since ancient time and have a long history of bilateral ties, adding that presently, both countries are at a crucial time in national rejuvenation and development, enjoying a synergy between their development strategies and a broad prospect for cooperation.

"To jointly maintain regional peace and stability, the two sides should make joint efforts against powers outside the region setting up military alliance in South Asia and practicing hegemonism," Wei, also a State Councilor, emphasised.

He said China is willing to work with Bangladesh to well implement the important consensus reached between their leaders to further develop the bilateral strategic partnership of cooperation.

With their cooperation being extensive, the two militaries should further increase the high-level visits, deepen cooperation in equipment technology, broaden exchanges in specialised fields, and forge closer military relations, he said.

During the meeting, Hamid said Bangladesh and China are time-tested friends and reliable strategic cooperation partners, adding that Dhaka attaches great importance to its relations with China and firmly supports the core interests of China.

The Bangladesh president called on both countries to strengthen coordination in international affairs and be committed to safeguarding regional peace, stability, prosperity and development, the Xinhua report said.

Hamid said he hopes the two militaries will continue to strengthen their practical cooperation in various fields, pushing for greater progress in their relations.

He also expressed gratitude for China's strong support for his country in its development of economy and national defence.

"The Chinese defence minister said Beijing will continue its strategic cooperation in the development of Bangladesh's armed forces as the military cooperation between two countries are gradually increasing," a Bangabhaban – the presidential palace - spokesman told PTI.

President Hamid welcomed Beijing's desire to strengthen the bilateral defence ties in the days to come, his press secretary Joynal Abedin said.

According to Abedin, Wei said that Beijing was also keen to enhance cooperation with Dhaka in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic while it was working to resolve the Rohingya crisis.

“China is also working to resolve the Rohingya problem,” the Chinese defence minister said.

According to the presidential palace spokesman, President Hamid reminded the Chinese minister that Bangladesh wanted Beijing to use its good office in persuading Myanmar to take back the forcibly displaced Rohingyas as it maintained a very good relation with Myanmar.

President Hamid described China as one of Bangladesh's most important development partners.

“Bangladesh-China relations are gradually expanding in various fields including trade and investment,” the president said.

The Chinese investments particularly in infrastructure and communication sectors were playing a very significant role in Bangladesh's socio-economic development, he said.

Hamid appreciated Beijing's willingness in strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations in tackling the coronavirus pandemic, saying Bangladesh as well was keen to work together with China on it.

Bangladesh is also eager to take joint initiative in research and production of corona vaccine, he added.

Also on Tuesday, Wei held in-depth talks with Bangladesh Army chief Gen Aziz Ahmed, discussing international and regional situation as well as relations between the two countries and two militaries.

China, Bangladesh should oppose powers from outside the region forming 'military alliance' in South Asia: Chinese Defence Minister

His comments came in the backdrop of the United States, India, Australia and Japan under the Quad grouping agreed to enhance their cooperation in the strategic Indo-Pacific amid growing Chinese assertiveness in the region.

economictimes.indiatimes.com

 

[Isa Khan]

China-Bangladesh bilateral ties will be ‘substantially damaged’ if Bangladesh decides to join the US led security alliance Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) in any form, said Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Li Jiming today (Monday).

The message was conveyed to the Bangladesh government by Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe during his recent visit to Dhaka, the Ambassador said.

He was responding to a question during a virtual interaction with the members of the Diplomatic Correspondent’s Association of Bangladesh (DCAB).

Mr Jiming said China sees Quad as an alliance against the country. It is a small club of 4, and we all know what it is for China- and that is why Japan has joined hands with the US, he said.

USA, Japan, Australia and India are the members of Quad, often termed by many as the Asian NATO.

‘We do not want any form of participation of Bangladesh in this alliance,” the Chinese Ambassador made it clear.

Earlier, Chinese officials said that the defence minister during his meeting with Bangladesh President put emphasis on the need for taking joint efforts by China and Bangladesh against the formation of a military alliance led by the United States for maintaining ‘hegemony’ in South Asia.

According to analysts, the first Quad summit held in March this year, was held to rejuvenate the grouping amid the growing influence of China in the region as the alliance was in hibernation since its inception in 2007.

Rohingya, Teesta

Responding to a question, the Chinese Ambassador said that China could not contact with the Myanmar government on the Rohingya repatriation issue as the situation in Myanmar is not normal now.

“We see no possibility of resuming the tri-patriate talks in near future,” the Ambassador said referring to the ongoing violent situation in Myanmar following the takeover of power by Myanmar military.

Responding to another question, Mr Jiming said that China will sincerely consider its engagement in Teesta River management project if the country gets feasibility study report on this project.

He added that Bangladesh government should conduct a study on the project first before sending the proposal.

'Beijing-Dhaka ties will be substantially damaged if Bangladesh joins Quad'

China-Bangladesh bilateral ties will be ‘substantially damaged’ if Bangladesh decides to join the US led security alliance Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) in any form, said Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Li Jiming today (Monday). The message was conveyed to the Bangladesh governmen

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

 

[Saithan]

I think a swedish/finnish approach would be good. participate in training and such, get better military equipment and such. While keeping China tripping. Joining one side or another would just result in unnecessary problems.

 

[Isa Khan]

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul on Tuesday said Bangladesh maintained a non-aligned and balanced foreign policy and it will decide what to do following that principles.

"We’re an independent and sovereign State. We decide our foreign policy. But yes, any country can uphold its position," he told reporters adding that they see with respect what others say.

The Foreign Minister made the remarks when his comments sought on Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming's remarks on "Quad" and Bangladesh.

"Naturally, he (Ambassador) represents a country. They can say what they want. Maybe they don't want it (Bangladesh's joining Quad)," Dr Momen said, adding that no one from the organisation that was mentioned did not approach Bangladesh.

“The comment has been an advanced one,” said the Foreign Minister.

Dr Momen said many people said many things in the past but Bangladesh is guided by its principled position.

He said they will decide following the foreign policy principles considering the interest of people and the country. "We’ll continue to do it (maintaining non-aligned and balanced foreign policy)."

"What he (Ambassador) said it's fine. We’ve nothing to say about it," Dr Momen added.

Chinese Ambassador Li Jiming on Monday said Bangladesh’s relations with China will "substantially get damaged" if Bangladesh joins "Quad", a US-led initiative.

The envoy said obviously it will not be a good idea for Bangladesh to participate in this small club of four countries because it will substantially damage the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

“So, we don’t like to see any form of participation by Bangladesh to this small group of countries,” said Ambassador Li.

He termed “Quad” a military alliance aiming against China's resurgence and its relationship with neighbouring countries.

The US, India, Japan and Australia are part of an informal strategic alliance - the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad as it is known.

Bangladesh to continue following non-aligned foreign policy: FM

Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul on Tuesday said Bangladesh maintained a non-aligned and balanced foreign policy and it will decide what to do following that principles. "We’re an independent and sovereign State. We decide our foreign policy. But yes, any country can uphold its position,"…

www.theindependentbd.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen on Tuesday said China has crossed the line while talking about Quad. The foreign minister was addressing a media conference at state guest house Padma in the capital on Tuesday in response to Chinese ambassador Li Jiming’s recent remarks.

Momen said the government is yet to take any decision regarding Quad. Besides, Bangladesh is an independent country and will take the decision as a sovereign country.

China ambassador to Bangladesh Li Jiming on Monday said Bangladesh’s relations with China will be “substantially damaged” if Bangladesh joins the US-led initiative, Quad. China considers Quad -- a strategic alliance of the US, Japan, India and Australia -- as a minor group with anti-China motives.
Advertisement

Chinese ambassador made these remarks at a virtual meeting to exchange views with journalists on Monday.
Chinese defence minister Wei Fenghe also sought Bangladesh’s assistance over issues such as Quad and IPS (Indo-Pacific Strategy) during his visit to Bangladesh last month.

The Chinese ambassador did not reply when asked what Bangladesh said in reply of China’s request.

Li Jiming said China always maintains that the US-led Quad is a minor anti-China initiative. I want to clearly say that there are security elements in the initiative although it is said to be economic, he said.

The Chinese ambassador alerted Bangladesh saying that it is not wise to ponder over joining with such a “small” group or club. Bilateral relations with Bangladesh would be substantially damaged if it joins hand with the initiative.

Addressing the media today, Abdul Momen said we are an independent and sovereign country. We set our foreign policy. Any country can express its opinions. But we’ll decide our course of action based on the fundamental principle we have for the welfare of our country. The Chinese ambassador has talked about his country’s stand. The organisation he was talking about has not approached us as yet. This was a bit of overstepping. But we have nothing special to say about this.

The minister further said generally China does not interfere in the affairs of other countries. I never heard them talking so aggressively to anyone. This is a matter of regret. Another country is trying to dictate what we should or should not do. We’ll do whatever is beneficial for the country.

The foreign minister further said the government did not expect such behaviour from China.
Responding to a question about whether any message would be given to the Chinese ambassador for his remarks, the foreign minister said, we do not tell the media about what we do. We have ways of doing things. We know what we’ll do. We can’t reveal everything.

China has crossed the line when talking about Quad: Foreign minister

Bangladesh foreign minister AK Abdul Momen said generally China does not interfere in the affairs of other countries. I never heard them talking so aggressively to anyone

en.prothomalo.com

 

[Isa Khan]

There are signs of a strategic polarisation emerging in the Indo-Pacific region. The long-standing adversity between the US and China is deepening further. The strategic competition between the two will intensify in the days to come. It is evident that the US is unwilling to stand up against China alone. It is making an effort to create a fresh initiative with its allies to thwart China.

It is common knowledge that China’s clout is increasing in the region. It is actively endeavouring to create a new sphere of influence. The US is moving forward with its allies Japan, India and Australia to obstruct China. While Quad, the US-led informal security dialogue comprising four countries including India, kicked off in 2007, it then became inactive. Though a virtual summit among its top leaders held in March this year, Quad was not only revived, but also took up a plan to widen its scope of action. The statement issued at the end of the summit spoke about Quad’s activities in this region pertaining to climate change, cyber security, technology and more.

Though Quad is intractably linked to the Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS), albeit unofficially. It plays a significant role in lending impetus to the ISP initiative. We have seen China’s serious objection to the role of IPS and Quad. According to China, Quad’s activities can disrupt stability in this region and instigate unrest.

However, I would be surprised if the Chinese ambassador made this remark only about Bangladesh getting involved in Quad. After all, Bangladesh is not linked to Quad. No one has even approached Bangladesh as yet to join Quad. Bangladesh, too, has not expressed any desire to join. In fact, Bangladesh appears nowhere on the list of countries mentioned in recent writings and studies about an expansion of Quad.

Interestingly, experts feel there may be a militarisation of Quad in the future. Many observers think that this will become the NATO of Asia. That is why we need to observe these developments closely. After all, Bangladesh has an important geostrategic location. It is a maritime country and Quad’s basic work area is maritime.

Due to its sensitive positioning on the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh’s importance has significantly multiplied. That is why we must not join any alliance or grouping that will lead to militarisation in the Indian Ocean. We must maintain our strategic neutrality. We will always uphold our strategic autonomy in national interests. For the sake of national interests, Bangladesh always wants peace and stability in the region.

* Maj. Gen. (retd) ANM Muniruzzaman is the president of Bangladesh Institute of Peace and Security Studies (BIPSS).

Bangladesh must maintain its strategic neutrality

Experts feel there may be a militarisation of Quad in the future. Many observers think that this will become the NATO of Asia

en.prothomalo.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Chinese envoy in Bangladesh clarifies remarks on Dhaka-Beijing ties​

Chinese ambassador in Dhaka Li Jiming on Wednesday presented an explanation to the Bangladesh government about the remarks he made about the possibility of 'substantial damage' to Bangladesh-China relations depending on Bangladesh joining in the Indo-Pacific Strategy promoted by US-led Quad.

Foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen took the explanation from the ambassador at the State Guest House Padma in Dhaka.

The ambassador has presented an explanation about the statement he made to the press, Momen told journalists after the meeting with Li Jiming.

Mentioning about the weakness of the ambassador in English language, the foreign secretary said the ambassador claimed that he expressed his 'personal views' to the press with making 'no suggestions' to the Bangladesh government.

Chinese ambassador Li Jiming on Monday said that Bangladesh’s engagement in the US-led Indo-Pacific strategy would 'substantially damage' Dhaka’s relations with Beijing.

Li made the remarks replying to question, in a vertual meeting with journalists, involving a call on of Chinese defence minister General Wei Fenghe with Bangladesh president Abdul Hamid.

In the meeting with president Hamid on April 27 in Dhaka, General Wei emphasised the need for Bangladesh to take joint efforts against the formation of a military alliance led by the United States on maintaining ‘hegemony’ in South Asia.

‘To jointly maintain regional peace and stability, the two sides [Bangladesh and China] should make joint efforts against powers outside the region setting up military alliance in South Asia and practising hegemonism,’ General Wei said, according to Chinese news agency Xinhua.

President Hamid avoided saying anything about the matters involving ‘intrusion prevention system’ issues, according to Bangladesh government officials.

Foreign minister AK Abdul Momen on Tuesday said that the remarks of the Chinese ambassador mentioning the likelihood of substantial damage to the bilateral relations between China and Bangladesh were very unfortunate and aggressive.

As a sovereign country, Bangladesh maintains independent foreign policy positions, the foreign minister said.

The US government too 'has taken note' of the statement made by Chinese ambassador to Bangladesh.

'We have taken note of that statement from the PRC ambassador to Bangladesh. What we would say is that we respect Bangladesh’s sovereignty, and we respect Bangladesh’s right to make foreign policy decisions for itself,' a spokesman of the US state department said in reply to a question.

A group of four countries — Australia, India, Japan and the US — known as Quad has been propagating for an IPS to allegedly contain the influence of China through its Belt and Road Initiative in the region with a declared focus on advancing common vision of the four countries of a ‘free, open, inclusive, peaceful and secure’ Indo-Pacific region, according to diplomatic sources.

Dignitaries from Australia, Japan and the US often push for Bangladesh’s engagement in the IPS while the Bangladesh government was publicly expressing its unwillingness to engage in rivalries among powerful countries at regional and international levels.

Chinese envoy in Bangladesh clarifies remarks on Dhaka-Beijing ties

Chinese ambassador in Dhaka Li Jiming on Wednesday presented an explanation to the Bangladesh government about the remarks he made about the possibility of 'substantial damage' to Bangladesh-China relations depending on Bangladesh joining in the Indo-Pacific Strategy promoted by US-led Quad.....

www.newagebd.net

 

[Isa Khan]

China has said Bangladesh and China are friendly close neighbours and they always treat each other with mutual respect and firmly support one another on issues bearing on respective core interests and major concerns.

Hua Chunying, Spokesperson at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at a regular briefing in Beijing said in South Asia it is definitely not China that is interfering in other countries' domestic affairs.

"I can tell you clearly that China and Bangladesh are very friendly close neighbours. We’ve grown our ties on the basis of the five principles of peaceful coexistence," she said.

The Spokesperson said this when Chinese Foreign Ministry's comments on Chinese Ambassador Li Jiming's remarks in Dhaka.

Hua said they all know what kind of mechanism the Quad (US, Japan, India and Australia) is.

She said China opposes "certain countries' efforts to form an exclusive clique, portray China as a challenge, and sow discord” between regional countries and China.

Responding to a question on whether China is aggressively trying to push its foreign policy, Hua Chunying said she is not sure if the questioner's information on the statement from the Bangladesh foreign minister was an accurate quote or if further clarification is needed.

"But one thing is clear. China always treats other countries as equals, especially small and medium ones," she said.

The Spokesperson reiterated that China and Bangladesh have very friendly relations. "We develop ties based on the five principles of peaceful coexistence, always respect and trust each other and offer each other firm support on matters concerning core interests and major concerns."

She said China was, is and will remain committed to its principle not to interfere in other countries' domestic affairs.

"As to the Quad, I think India knows better than us the intention of this mechanism. Isn't it intended as a small clique against China? Remarks expressing opposition to this mechanism are not about interference but about rejecting small cliques and bloc politics," said the Spokesperson.

She said they also reflect the aspiration for maintaining regional peace and stability.

Chinese Ambassador Li Jiming on Wednesday met Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen and explained his remarks made during a programme hosted by the Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB).

The meeting was held after a vaccine handing over ceremony at the state guesthouse Padma.

They discussed different bilateral issues, including Covid cooperation between the two countries, a senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs told UNB.

They highlighted the importance of the growing relationship between the two countries.

On Monday, the Ambassador talked about a number of issues, including vaccine cooperation.

The envoy, while responding to a question, also talked about Quad, an initiative of four countries- the United States, Japan, India and Australia, that was followed by a reaction by Dhaka.

Ambassador Li said obviously it will not be a good idea for Bangladesh to participate in this small club of four countries because it will "substantially damage" the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

“So, we don’t like to see any form of participation by Bangladesh to this small group of countries,” said the envoy.

Dhaka, Beijing treat each other with mutual respect: Spokesperson

China has said Bangladesh and China are friendly close neighbours and they always treat each other with mutual respect and firmly support one another on issues bearing on respective core interests and major concerns. Hua Chunying, Spokesperson at the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, at a...

www.theindependentbd.com

 

[Isa Khan]

Against the backdrop of China's warning that Bangladesh's possible entry into the Quad would impact ties between Dhaka and Beijing, India today made it clear that the expansion of the four-nation grouping was not discussed.

Asked by an Indian journalist about the issue at a virtual media briefing, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesman Arindam Bagchi said Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla had, after the Quad's first virtual summit held on March 13, said there was no discussion on expansion of the grouping consisting of the US, India, Australia and Japan, reports our New Delhi correspondent.

"Well, I have to say that there was no discussion on expansion of the grouping, I don't think that was something that was envisaged. But some members did speak about working collaboratively with other countries and other regions. In that context, Europe did come up as a region that was taking a greater interest in the Indo-Pacific," Shringla had said.

Asked about the controversial remarks of the Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh on the Quad and Dhaka, Bagchi said "Bangladesh government has already come out with its response on this."

No discussion on expansion of Quad: India after China’s warning to Bangladesh

Against the backdrop of China’s warning that Bangladesh’s possible entry into the Quad would impact ties between Dhaka and Beijing, India today made it clear that the expansion of the four-nation grouping was not discussed.

www.thedailystar.net

 

[xizhimen]

In China no one cares abou this "Quad" and 99% of the population don't even know it. What this "Quad" thing can really do to China anyway?

 

[Jackdaws]

In China no one cares abou this "Quad" and 99% of the population don't even know it. What this "Quad" thing can really do to China anyway?

Doesn't surprise the democratic world. 99% of population being kept ignorant would be a hallmark of any Communist regime

 

[xizhimen]

Doesn't surprise the democratic world. 99% of population being kept ignorant would be a hallmark of any brutal Communist regime

Why you changed your catchphrase "civilised world" into "democratic world”？

 

[Isa Khan]

In China no one cares abou this "Quad" and 99% of the population don't even know it. What this "Quad" thing can really do to China anyway?

Then why did your ambassador warn us?